Studying in Ireland is not that expensive compared to many other countries with top-level universities. Dublin, the capital of Ireland, is the most expensive city to live in. Still, compared with other common study destinations, like the UK, Irish cities are cost-effective places to live.
Tuition fees differ depending on the area of study, curriculum, and university you select to study. Undergraduate courses will cost you from EUR 10,000 - EUR 25,000 annually. Master's and PhD postgraduate courses are EUR 9,150 - EUR 37,000 annually.
Accommodation
Since accommodation is a significant concern for all international or out-of-state students searching for suitable accommodation beforehand is a must, as it might take some time to find the right one.
Universities offer students accommodation in residence halls, which usually cost above the European average of 300 - 600 EUR. It is often difficult to find a place as the number of places is limited, and the demand is high.
Apart from residence halls, you can rent or share an apartment or choose to live with an Irish family. The average accommodation prices for students in Ireland are, for students living alone, it may cost you 400 - 900 EUR per month. For students sharing an apartment, 450 - 550 EUR per month.
Other expenses that come along with accommodation include utilities which will cost you around 30 - 50 EUR per month, and internet, up to 60 EUR per month.
Travel expenses
Students can benefit from discounts for transportation if they use the Student Leap Card or the Bus Éireann services to travel around the country. A monthly pass with a special discount for students for public transportation in Ireland is around 50 – 55 EUR per month.
Most students prefer using bicycles as a mode of transportation. You can rent a bicycle to get around the city for around 20 EUR daily.
Food
The monthly average food costs are not that high in Ireland. The money you spend on food solely depends on your food preferences. You will spend around EUR 250-350 a month shopping for groceries. As a student, saving some money for later is essential to reduce food expenses.
You can find cheaper food items in supermarkets such as Aldi, Lidl, Tesco, Dunnes, or Superquinn. If you want to dine out in a small restaurant, you will need to spend around 15 EUR for a meal or enjoy a three-course meal for two in a mid-range restaurant; you will be spending 55 EUR.
Entertainment
Participation in college clubs and societies is a very effective and cheap way of getting involved in college social life. There are various clubs, including sports clubs, academic societies, dramatic societies, political societies, and much more. Cinemas in Ireland are very popular but expensive, especially on Friday and Saturday nights.
Going to the afternoon shows during the week is cheaper, and there is often a student discount available for specific shows. Pubs in Ireland are also great places to go if you like live music. You will spend around 60 - 100 EUR monthly on entertainment and refreshment.
Miscellaneous
Other expenses you must cover while studying include books and other study materials, clothes and shoes, medical insurance, etc. Books and other study materials will cost you around 75 EUR per month. For medical insurance, you will be spending around 45 EUR a month.
Shops differ significantly in price, so shopping around for clothes and shoes is best.
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